Cash flows in Assembly race

Poizner has a total campaign bank account of $4,149,694 and the majority of the money - $3,145,915 - came in during the last three months. He refuses to take campaign contributions from corporations, but doesn't have a problem taking money from individuals heading those companies. The executives can vouch for his credibility since they know his work in the community, he said. Earlier this year, big checks were being written by those executives. Now smaller checks from unknown supporters are rolling in.

Ruskin, a member of the Redwood City Council, nearly tripled his war chest - he now has $999,515. What started with small contributions from residents is moving to a new level. Political action committees - from teachers to attorneys - are throwing thousands of dollars into Ruskin's campaign.

The Democratic State Central Committee contributed $160,000 in three separate checks issued on Sept. 13, 20 and 30.

Assemblyman Gene Mullin, D-San Mateo, contributed $2,000. Meanwhile, Mullin is running a barely contested re-election campaign in the 19th District.

Ruskin also took contributions from local democrats including $500 each from San Mateo County Supervisor Jerry Hill and Brisbane Councilwoman Sepi Richardson's consulting company.

Ruskin and Poizner are battling it out in what is shaping up to be the most hotly-contested seat in the county, perhaps even the state.

Poizner has vowed not to take a single penny from special interest political action committees or corporate contributions that Ruskin is relying on to fuel his candidacy.

Ruskin maintains Poizner's position is deceitful, however, because the Republican didn't back Proposition 34, which sets limits on campaign spending. Poizner counters the spending cap his opponent promotes is also deceitful because special interest groups and the Democratic party can spend an unlimited amount of money to promote Ruskin.